iStockphoto/Thinkstock(NEW YORK) – With colder weather on its way to many parts of the U.S., people are getting their fireplaces ready to bring the heat. But the Hearth, Patio and Barbecue Association is urging consumers to act with caution when they use their fireplaces this winter.

An industry-wide safety initiative launched Monday is warning folks about the risk of serious burns from touching the glass fronts on gas fireplaces.

Safety standard changes will go into effect for glass fireplaces in 2015, but until then, association spokeswoman Leslie Wheeler says consumers need to be careful.

“The Consumer Product Safety Commission, whom we've been working with, has said there were 200 burns a year,” she said. Wheeler also suggests that people check with the manufacturer of their fire place to see if an attachable screen, which can help prevent burns, is available for purchase.